Student discounts and exemptions for Council tax

How it works

If you are a full time student living on your own or only with other full time students, you are exempt from paying council tax.

If you live in private accommodation, for example you rent a shared house, you have to apply for your exemption. If you live in student halls of residence, you are automatically exempt and do not have to apply.

If you are a full-time student living with someone else who has to pay council tax, applying for student exemption may make that person eligible for single persons discount.

Who is it for (eligibility)

You are eligible for a discount or exemption if you are a full-time student on a course that

• lasts at least 1 calendar or academic year for at least 24 weeks out of the year, and

• normally involves at least 21 hours of study, tuition or work experience per week during term time.

Apply

Before your start

You will need proof of study. This must be an enrolment certificate or student certificate provided by your university or college.

You must continue to pay your current Council Tax bill while the outcome of your application is decided.

Apply for student exemption

Help applying

If you need help applying and would benefit from face to face support, you can book a One4all appointment. You can meet with a member of the team at an RCT library who will support you in completing and submitting the application.

Book an appointment

Report a change of circumstances

You must inform us immediately if your circumstances change as it could effect your entitlement to a discount or exemption. 

Report a change of circumstances

Contact us